Aboriginal Diggers Fought but Couldn't Vote

Ms Burney said it is estimated that 500 to 800 Aboriginal Diggers served in the First World War. “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Diggers, both men and women, fought courageously for Australia in overseas conflicts, at a time when they were not even considered citizens of their own country,” Ms Burney said. “As members of the Australian Infantry Forces, they were treated as equals and paid the same as other soldiers and generally accepted without prejudice.

“They were among our true heroes who showed true grit and tenacity to defy all boundaries and to serve their country as proud Aboriginal men and women. “But many Diggers returned home from these conflicts to find that their bravery, service and sacrifice were barely recognised and to face a continuation of the White Australia Policy. “For a time, Aboriginal Diggers were not permitted to march with their comrades on ANZAC Day or to join with them in after-march events. They were not even allowed to enter RSL clubs. “Despite their service and their competence as soldiers, Aborigines were excluded from the ANZAC legend. “Aboriginal servicemen and women are now rightfully part of this tradition.”

The 2009 Redfern Anzac Day Commemoration is organised by the Coloured Diggers Project and Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group.